Listed telecoms firm Safaricom recently launched the first ever solar-powered mobile phone handset into the Kenyan market.Branded “Simu ya Solar” (Kiswahili for solar-powered phone), the handset is manufactured under a partnership with ZTE, the Chinese based global provider of telecommunications equipment and network solutions . The handset is made from recycled materials and has an in-built solar panel that charges the phone using sun rays.

Presiding over the launch of the phone, Environment and Mineral Resources minister Mr John Michuki praised Safaricom for embracing environmental friendly technologies and urged other operators to follow suit. “It is time we embraced environmental-friendly technology to help conserve water catchment areas”, Mr Michuki said, adding that the government would support any projects geared towards helping the poor.

“It is my earnest appeal to both public and private sectors to embrace technologies that mitigate climate change. Business will have to take due consideration of environment and issues such as renewable energy, carbon dioxide emissions and climate change in order to remain sustainable”.
Mr Michael Joseph, Safaricom Chief Executive said the company was keen on embracing green business processes and products.
“The launch of “Simu ya solar” underpins Safaricom’s credentials as a green and environmentally-sensitive company, and is one of the products that herald the firm’s continuous commitment to participating in the green revolution”, said Mr Joseph.
The phone—which also comes with a conventional charger—can be charged with either solar or electricity. It will be retailing at all Safaricom shops and dealer channels countrywide at a price of US$40. Mr Paul Naastepad, CEO of Intivation, the Amsterdam based company that developed the solar panel said only an hour a day’s charge is enough to keep the phone on power.
“We believe the launch of this phone heralds good news for Africa. If only 10 per cent of the world population could use this phone, 10,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide could be saved”, said Mr Naastepad.
“Our subscribers will now not have to take their phones to merchants for charging and wait all day for their handsets to charge in order to make calls . They can now talk all day and night, without worrying about the level of charge and charging costs”, Mr Joseph added.
Safaricom has embraced green practices to satisfy customers, promote positive community relations and comply with environmental regulations. The company has over 36 radio base stations that are operating on renewable energy sources namely wind and solar in various parts of the country.
“Solar power is definitely the way to go as it is cheap, green and renewable. This solar- charged phone will come in handy in the rural part of the country without grid electricity”, said Mr Joseph.

The launch of “Simu ya solar” couldn’t have come at a better time. The country is currently facing a severe power crisis that has adversely affected business.